Tell me the one item you couldn't live without...

[eyeheartgoofy]

I was really happy that I had some of those "disposable" sippy cups (I say "disposable" but I washed them every night and reused them). I could buy a large water or juice at the parks and just pour some into the cup and re-cap the beverage for later use.

 

[ekball]

We just got back (a week ago) from our 7-night trip with DS (14 months) and DD (she'll be 3 on 10/23). I can't choose just one thing - sorry - but here are the things we found were essential:
1. RayShade for our double stroller - kept the kids completely shaded from the sun. My kids always had a shaded respite from the intense sun thanks to our RayShade, and never got burned.
2. Anti-bac hand wipes (for hands, table tops, highchairs, etc.)
3. We bought one of the Disney mister fans (a deal at $17...HA! ) on day 1 because it was SO hot - and found that to be an essential...not only for battling heat, but it also gave both kids something to keep them entertained/occupied.
4. CROCS!!! They were the best for DD! They were comfy, easy to walk/run in, quick to dry, easy on/off, etc. (oh, and she LOVED wearing them) Really. They were THAT great!
5. For identification I had 2 silicone bracelets made like the "LIVESTRONG" bracelets. I got them on ebay, but you can also buy them directly www.rekeydesigns.com. I had the following engraved on the bracelets "Mommy & Daddy (###) ###-####" with our cell number. Got one in pink and one in red to match DD's park outfits and she wore one each time we left the hotel. She loved them, they looked adorable, and we all had the peace of mind that she was "branded" should we get separated. We coached her before leaving on how to use the bracelet if we were separated.
Sorry for the book, but these all were our essentials.

 

[bjakmom]

ekball - I was just looking at those bracelets on line for my DGrD - which size did you get? The 5" toddler looks like it will be too snug, the 7" junior looks like it will hang loose - I am thinking about getting the junior size and just putting it around her ankle instead of her wrist. She is just 3, but already wears a size 5 - a tall, big-boned girl! I was also going to print her name, my name and my cell phone # - I thought these would also be great for her to wear everywhere we go! We already swear by our ray shade, crocs and mister fans - they make every trip with us !

 

[ekball]

ekball - I was just looking at those bracelets on line for my DGrD - which size did you get? The 5" toddler looks like it will be too snug, the 7" junior looks like it will hang loose - I am thinking about getting the junior size and just putting it around her ankle instead of her wrist. She is just 3, but already wears a size 5 - a tall, big-boned girl! I was also going to print her name, my name and my cell phone # - I thought these would also be great for her to wear everywhere we go! We already swear by our ray shade, crocs and mister fans - they make every trip with us !

bjakmom - I got my DD the toddler size and it was plenty big, though not so big it would fall off. My girl will be turning 3 on the 23rd, and is wearing size 3/3T (some a little big still, but most will fit). Maybe get one of each size for your DGrD? They are quite reasonable - and you can get an even better deal on ebay. Wearing it on the ankle is a good idea too!

Looks like we have the same "essentials" list.

 

[CindyBella]

I can't leave home without my stroll'r hold'r! They are rings or hooks that go on my stroller and hold my purse, and shopping bags! Love them!!